In a potential international allegiance shocker, the Austrian Football Association (รFB) is reportedly moving "intensively" to secure Borussia Dortmund midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
As reported by The Athletic and Bild on February 12, 2026, Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick is the driving force behind the pursuit, hoping to convince the 22-year-old former Chelsea man to swap the Three Lions for the Das Team jersey.
The Eligibility Factor: Why Austria? ๐
While Chukwuemeka has been a staple of England’s youth setups—most notably starring in the 2022 U19 Euro victory—he remains uncapped at the senior level, making a FIFA-sanctioned switch possible.
Born in Austria: Carney was born in Eisenstadt (near Vienna) to Nigerian parents and lived there during his early childhood before moving to Northampton.
Citizenship Hurdles: Having previously renounced his Austrian citizenship to become a British citizen, the รFB is currently working on an agreement to have it reinstated, citing that the original decision was made while he was a minor.
The Competition: Chukwuemeka is also eligible for Nigeria (via heritage) and France, but Rangnick is promising him a guaranteed starting spot in a squad that has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
The "Dortmund" Context: 2025/26 Season ๐
Since making his loan move from Chelsea permanent in the summer of 2025, Chukwuemeka has found his rhythm in the Bundesliga:
Metric,Performance at Dortmund
Appearances,26
Goals,3
Status,A key rotation player in BVB's midfield under Nuri ลahin.
England Standing,"Currently behind the likes of Bellingham, Palmer, and Morgan Rogers in Lee Carsley’s pecking order."
Ralf Rangnick (Rumored Stance): "We want the best talents who have a connection to this country. Carney is a world-class prospect who knows the German-speaking environment well. He would be a cornerstone of our midfield for the next decade."
The Verdict: This is a classic "Path to the World Cup" dilemma. In England, Chukwuemeka faces a generational logjam in midfield. In Austria, he would be the marquee star. With Rangnick’s track record of developing Bundesliga talents, the move makes a lot of tactical sense for a player seeking consistent international football.